If you own a Thermacell I highly recommend capping the cartridge after every use so that the pyrethroid (metofluthrin) doesn't evaporate. If you've already discarded the cap just use plastic wrap. Replacement cartridges are over $20 each. Also, if you're the forgetful type set a phone timer so that you're reminded to turn the contraption off after dinner. #thermacell #mosquitoes #pyrethroids #repellents

New on Entomology Today: Following historical accounts of Native American tribes using smelly animal fats to protect from mosquitoes, researchers at Rice University and New Mexico State University tested repellent properties of fresh and rancid oils from bears, sharks, alligators, and cod fish. Initial results suggest some animal fats do indeed repel mosquitoes—but exactly which compounds within the oils are doing the repelling remains a question. #entomology #repellents https://entomologytoday.org/2024/12/05/researchers-new-mosquito-repellents-rancid-animal-fats/

#gardening question: any success stories using homemade concoctions such as citrus, mint, or garlic sprays to keep rabbits from eating the young tenders? I've fenced the New England Asters, zinnias, dahlias, yucca, and daisy, but I've run out of fencing and they're starting in on the wild strawberry and black-eyed susans after wiping out the Henry Eilers. #rabbits #PlantDestruction #Natural #Repellents

"Bug zappers are exceptional killers of bugs — just not the ones that bite you. Among the thousands of insects these devices electrocute each night, almost all are harmless. One study estimated even a fraction of the bug zappers sold in the United States kill more than 70 billion insects annually — with no discernible impact on mosquitoes or other biting insects." #entomology #insects #repellents https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2023/09/12/bug-zappers-mosquito-repellent/